Prospect Talent Score

Probability of Success

History

2004-05: A native of Prague, Czech Republic, Smolenak came over to play in the OHL in his draft year to improve his draft stock.

3rd round (73rd overall), 2005 by Tampa

The Kingston forward led all OHL rookies in goals with 31 and was fourth in points with 60. He was remarkably consistent in production all season. The month of March was his weakest stretch of the year and even then he posted four goals and seven points in ten games. Smolenak’s consistency is even more notable considering that as the year wore on, his linemate Anthony Stewart, the club’s captain and a top Florida prospect, seemingly lost interest in the mediocre team.

He had an impressive performance at the 2005 Top Prospects Game, where he posted a goal and an assist despite only being there as an injury replacement. Even though he was strong from start to finish, his stock seemed to rise late in the season.

2006-07: Smolenak was signed in 2006 and assigned to the ECHL Johnstown Chiefs.2007-08: Smolenak started the season with the Norfolk Admirals (AHL) and ended with the Mississippi Sea Wolves (ECHL). In 56 games with Norfolk, he recorded 26 points (15g+11a) and 108 penalty minutes. After the jump to the ECHL, he appeared in 19 games, scoring seven goals and eight assists.

In May of 2009, Smolenak signed a contract with Niznekamsk of the KHL. Returned to play in the NHL in September 2009 though.

Talent Analysis

Smolenak has a good 6’3 frame and very good hands. He has a tendency to stop moving his feet though and could be more involved physically.